ROOM UNDER THE STAIRS (Z SIDES)

Ryan1Nunez

Room Under The Stairs finds Zayn leaning fully into a stripped-back, rootsy sound that feels more intimate than anything he’s done before. As someone who’s followed his solo work since Mind of Mine, I respect how personal and low-key this record is. His vocals are still the highlight: smooth, emotional, and effortlessly controlled. That said, the album can feel a little too subdued at times. The mellow production blends together, and a few tracks don’t leave a lasting impression the way his earlier R&B moments did. I admire the vulnerability and the artistic pivot, but I found myself missing some of the edge and dynamic shifts he’s capable of. It’s sincere and reflective, but just not his strongest statement.

pitchfork